The microstructure and wear properties of laser-clad Wc-Cr 3C2 cermet coating on steel substrate

Abstract

WC-Cr3C2 cermet coating on carbon steel was fabricated by laser controlled reactive synthesis and exhibited the metallurgical bonding at the interface between coating and substrate. The microstructure and wear properties of laser-clad WC-Cr3C2 Cermet Coating on steel substrate have been investaged by means of scaning eletron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), microhardness testing and wear testing. Experimental results show that the coating has a very good thermal resistance and high bonding strength due to Ni addition, which decreases stress concentration at the interface and increases the bonding strength due to better wettability. The coating shows superior hardness and wear resistance. In the same wear conditions, the wear resistance of the coating is 4 times than that of steel substrate. © 2011 The Japan Institute of Metals.